Prime Video’s new series “Young Sherlock” introduces audiences to a youthful and emotional rendition of the brilliant, fictional detective Sherlock Holmes. The show, which released March 4, creates a story filled with adrenaline and plot twists following Sherlock’s early life as a man on the run at Oxford University in England.
The story of “Young Sherlock” is loosely based upon that of Andrew Lane’s “Young Sherlock Holmes” book series released from 2010-15. These books were authorized by the estate of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the original author of the “Sherlock Holmes” series.
The TV series centers Sherlock Holmes (Hero Fiennes Tiffin) and fellow Oxford student James Moriarty (Dónal Finn) as they solve various mysteries that occur within the town. The two outcasts develop a strong friendship based on their shared intellectual abilities.
This relationship differs from what fans of the "Sherlock Holmes” universe might have already established within the original book, “The Final Problem,” written by Doyle in 1893. In his book, Doyle creates an intense rivalry between the two characters, establishing them as intellectual adversaries that eventually lead each other to their demises.
This side of their relationship is not explored in Season 1 of the new series. However, while the show has not yet been renewed by Prime Video, a potential Season 2 could explain what led to this heated dual between the two.
Their comedically inquisitive relationship was one of my favorite aspects of the show. I felt I became more entuned to the story when I knew that Sherlock and Moriarty were going on another amusing adventure.
The show follows Sherlock after he gets bailed out of jail for a pickpocketing spree. He begins work as an Oxford assistant, attending to the highly esteemed staff at the college. However, upon coming to work at Oxford, Sherlock is framed for the murder of Oxford professor Charles Thompson (Paul Antony-Barber).
After getting locked up for these murders, Sherlock escapes jail with the help of Moriarty. As the two try to clear Sherlock’s name, they work together to solve the mystery of who is killing the professors at Oxford. While they chase a murderer, the detectives also begin to uncover the truth around the untimely death of Sherlock’s younger sister Beatrice (Holly Cattle), who died 12 years before the events of the series.
What made “Young Sherlock” so enjoyable was its ability to blend an emotional backstory within a high-stakes narrative.
Throughout the series, Sherlock appears overwhelmed with feelings of regret for not playing with his sister before she disappeared. The series’ emotions are also amplified by Sherlock and Moriarty’s deep sense of loyalty and strong friendship.
Despite the Holmes’ familial issues, this series feels delightfully energetic and, at many times, chaotic in a charming way.
“Young Sherlock” blends mystery with adventure, as it explores Sherlock’s early life. It establishes how Sherlock became the detective many know today; an aspect I find quite interesting and refreshing compared to the standard direct expertise of adult Sherlock most are familiar with.
I really enjoyed that the plot develops gradually through the constant thrill of Sherlock, Moriarty and occasionally Mycroft’s journey as they discover the truth. Rather than presenting most of the action within one big climax, this series disperses reveals throughout the entire runtime. It kept me immersed in the series and forced me to the edge of my seat the entire time.
“Young Sherlock” is a hit for fans of the action-adventure genre. Not only does it blend comedy with intense action, but it also presents an emotional and family-focused story.
